Abstract Background This study aimed to compare three different methods [breastfeeding, skin-to-skin contact (SSC), swaddling + holding] to reduce the pain felt by term newborns during a heel lance (HL). Methods This was a randomized three-group experimental study. The study sample included 90 newborns, 30 in each group. The data were collected using a pulse oximeter, a voice recorder, an Information Form, the Neonatal Infant Pain Scale (NIPS). The newborns’ pain level, heart rate, and oxygen saturation were measured at three different times. Results No difference was found between the groups’ mean NIPS scores before the HL procedure ( p > 0.05). The mean NIPS scores 10 s after the procedure started and after the HL procedure were the lowest in the breastfeeding group, followed by the SSC and swaddling + holding groups ( p < 0.05). There was no difference between the groups’ mean heart rates before the procedure; however, there was a significant difference 10 s after the procedure started and after the procedure ( p < 0.05). Conclusion Breastfeeding is the most effective method to reduce pain during and after HL procedures in term newborns, followed by SSC and swaddling + holding. Trial registration This study was retrospectively registered at ClinicalTrials.gov with the registration number NCT05797532 (date: 04.04.2023).